The trick to a flat belly isn’t just doing the almighty ab workout, but also eating healthy. Pair these waist-whittling foods with a reduced-calorie eating plan and you’ll slim down where you want to—your belly.
Following are 10 flat belly foods that you must add to your diet:
10. Almonds
The MUFAs (monounsaturated fatty acid—a healthy fat!) and vitamin E in almonds work together to cut cholesterol. Almonds are also a great source of vegetable protein and fiber.
Eating Tip: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of almonds over low-fat unsweetened yogurt and berries for an energizing morning meal.
9. Avocado
Avocados, a great source of heart-healthy MUFA, contain more of the cholesterol-smashing beta-sitosterol than any other fruit. They are one of the best flat belly foods that you shouldn’t avoid.
Eating Tip: Mash a ¼ cup Hass avocado with lime juice, salt and pepper and serve with baked chips or raw vegetables.
READ THIS: Avocado: America’s Most Powerful Fruit
8. Dark or Semi-Sweet Chocolate
Chocolate or, more specifically, cocoa powder made from ground, defatted cocoa beans, contains compounds that have the potential to protect against heart disease, stroke, cancer, and diabetes.
Eating Tip: Melt ¼ cup of dark or semi-sweet chocolate. Drizzle over fresh strawberries for a belly-flattening dessert.
7. Flaxseed Oil
Flaxseed oil is the best plant source of omega-3 fatty acids and helps reduce systemic inflammation, which researchers believe may lead to heart disease, cancer and Alzheimer’s disease.
Eating Tip: Stir 1 tablespoon into a smoothie as a healthy afternoon snack.
RELATED: 6 Reasons To Eat Flaxseed
6. Macadamia Nuts
Adding nuts and seeds to your diet can yield heart-health benefits. Macadamia nuts also contain fiber to help with digestion.
Eating Tip: Crush 2 tablespoons macadamia nuts. Dip one 3-ounce portion of chicken breast or 4 ounce piece of fish in low-fat milk, then press nuts to adhere. Bake at 350 degrees F for 10-20 minutes or until done.
5. Natural Peanut Butter
You may not think of it, but a serving of peanut butter contains…